GentlemenA totally different subject to what we are used to discussing.If it were possible to match one of the old square rig tea clippers in as race against a modern square rigger using just manpower and without the newer ship using any modern items such as navigational aids or power winches, who would win given winds up to say force 7 or 8?My own opinion is that he old skippers would be willing to push their ships harder due to their own and their crews experience, but what do you think?

paul.mercer wrote:GentlemenA totally different subject to what we are used to discussing.If it were possible to match one of the old square rig tea clippers in as race against a modern square rigger using just manpower and without the newer ship using any modern items such as navigational aids or power winches, who would win given winds up to say force 7 or 8?My own opinion is that he old skippers would be willing to push their ships harder due to their own and their crews experience, but what do you think?

I think that the odds would likely be with the more modern ships. Their much stronger wire standing rigging would enable carriage of more sail in blowing weather.